TOKAIDO (2012)

PLAYERS	TIME	DESIGNER	PUBLISHER
2-5	45 mins	Antoine Bauza	Funforge

It’s the ever so beautiful, TOKAIDO.

This is one of the most relaxing games I have ever played. I usually come last, or not far off. Yet I will play this any time someone asks because this is a game where it’s more about the journey than the destination.

In TOKAIDO, players are making their way along the East Sea Road in ancient Japan.

Along the way you’ll stop off at shops or shrines, meet interesting strangers, or take in the view, all in the name of points.

When I first saw TOKAIDO all set up and ready to play, it made me see games in a different way.

This game is so beautiful to look at, despite how much white covers its board and cards.

The minimalistic style lets you focus on what you need. The colours lean a little away from the standard Red, Green, Yellow, and Blue, and the character illustrations are adorable.

I really enjoy the peaceful pace of the game. TOKAIDO uses a movement mechanic where the player in last is the next to go, so there’s some thinking to do when you see where you need to visit, but can’t risk going too far ahead. Doing so will potentially give other players extra turns.

The game also comes with asymmetrical player powers, making play slightly different each time.

There isn’t much to not like about TOKAIDO. Maybe some player powers are better than others. And getting blocked out of locations when you really need something can really scupper your plans.

But the game feels less competitive than anything else I’ve played, so these things wash over me when playing TOKAIDO, because I’m just having too much fun to care.

TOKAIDO is more than a board game. It’s a work of art, one that lets you sit down with your friends and enjoy a relaxing journey together.